MRI-activated magnetoelectric nanoparticles as theranostic agents

Magnetoelectric nanoparticles (MENPs) are gaining attention as wireless nanotools capable of converting magnetic fields into localized electric stimuli. However, their potential as theranostic agents is still in its infancy, and their responses under clinically relevant magnetic field conditions remain poorly understood. This study presents a systematic assessment of core-shell MENPs behavior on colorectal cancer cells, investigating their response under exposure to a clinical 3 T MRI scanner. After spontaneous internalization, MENP-treated and untreated cells were subjected to MRI fields, with morphological alterations and cell viability being assessed over time. A clear dose- and time-dependent cytotoxic effect was observed, with the highest level of cell death (>80 %) detected in the group treated with 100 μg/mL MENPs and exposed to MRI fields. These effects are likely associated with the interaction of the magnetic field with the nanoparticles, leading to localized electric field generation at the particle surface, which could disrupt cell membrane integrity and induce apoptosis-related pathways. Simulations of the MRI field distribution further supported the observed responses by providing a more comprehensive view of MRI-triggered MENP activation. Overall, the results here shown provide new insights for the establishment of MENPs-based theranostic platforms, which could affect cell viability while simultaneously enabling real-time imaging. • MENPs can be efficiently visualized and quantified under 3 T and 7 T MRI systems. • MENPs alter cell morphology and activate apoptotic mechanisms in HT-29 cancer cells. • MRI triggers magnetoelectric MENPs cytotoxic effects on HT-29 cells. • In silico modeling shows MENPs electric field distribution under MRI activation. • MENPs show promise as dual MRI contrast and MRI-activated therapeutic cancer agents.